Mini Prospectus 2027 - Flipbook - Page 9
CHOOSING YOUR
STUDY PROGRAMME
Many students applying to Varndean Sixth Form College are uncertain about which career
path they wish to pursue and that’s perfectly okay. What matters is that you’re taking the
next step in your educational journey.
As you begin studying with us, you’ll have the opportunity to develop new skills and explore
what truly inspires you. Over time, most students discover their strengths and interests,
whether through the courses they study, the enrichment activities they engage in, or the
guidance they receive from our experienced staff. By the time you leave us, you will be well
prepared to take your next steps with confidence.
HERE ARE SOME FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING YOUR SUBJECTS:
What are the entry
requirements? Will the
GCSEs I’m taking and my
predicted grades allow me
to take the courses I have
chosen?
What do I enjoy?
What am I good at?
Do I prefer coursework
or exams?
What is the difference
between A Levels and
vocational courses?
A Levels are predominantly
assessed by exams at the
end of the second year,
whereas vocational courses
are more modular and
coursework based.
If I know my preferred
career path, do I require any
specific A Levels for entry
onto a university degree?
You can research the wide
range of university entry
requirements at www.ucas.
com/undergraduate
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
ADVANCED LEVEL (Level 3)
IB Diploma or 4 A levels
A mixture of at least 7 GCSEs at 6 or above including
English, Maths and Science.
3 A Levels
A mixture of at least 6 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above,
including English.
A mixed programme at Level 3 to include at least one
Vocational Course
A mixture of at least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above,
including English.
Some subjects have their own additional specific entry requirements. See the course section for details.
Where a Grade 4 in GCSE Maths or English Language has not been achieved, this will be included in your programme.
foundation level (level 2)
At least 4 GCSEs at Grade 3, including English. At least one GCSE or equivalent should be at Grade 4 or above.
Where a Grade 4 in GCSE Maths or English Language has not been achieved, this will be included in your programme. If less than a Grade 3 has
already been achieved, then this may be a stepping-stone qualification or an ESOL qualification.
gateway to foundation
Students will typically have GCSE equivalent qualifications of Grade 3s or above.
Full details of all the courses on offer can be found later in this booklet and on our website.
